smartIRON: The Smart Weight Training Monitoring System

I've started out 2013 vigilant about keeping track of my workouts using both the Nike+ app and the Nike Fuelband (one of my Tech Top 10's of 2012). Both have helped record and motivate my activity on a daily basis, and thanks to both, I'm now back to running and lifting regularly. But there's always been a problem: none of the current sports monitoring bands or clips are ideal for monitoring the days I shift over from cardio over to weight training with kettlebells. Because anyone who has worked out knows an hour spent walking or even running is not the same as an hour lifting heavy weights...

The smartIRON system aims to fill in the gap with an easy on, easy off magnet install monitoring device designed specifically for free-weight training equipment. Think of smartIRON as a wireless Nike+ Fuelband for your dumbbells that has more than a passing resemblance to the NEST thermostat:

Create your workout routine online or select a prebuilt one, sync it to smartIRON and then hit the gym! Slap smartIRON on plates, dumbbells, kettle-bells or anything that moves and its internal magnets will grab on tight. smartIRON will lead you through the routine, counting reps and sets and showing your progress to the goal for each exercise. When you are done, your info gets uploaded to the cloud. Login from anywhere and see charts of your history to identify trends, change routines increase goals, etc. See new popular or recommended routines from the smartIRON community. Get suggestions for nutrition or supplements to compliment your exercises. You can even share your success of reaching your goals through social media connections.

The smartIRON project just launched today, and founders Kevin and Keith are seeking $100,000 in funding over at Kickstarter for design and manufacturing costs. Throw them $149 in funding and you'll be amongst the first owners of the device is funding goals are met ($99 funding results in a reduced rate later when available).